These days, more Americans are learning they have sleep apnea, thanks to new advancements which allow sleep physicians to better diagnose patients. Modern technology now allows patients to get tested while they sleep inside their own homes; and a new study suggests that testing could become even easier in the near future.
Amazing Technology
A new study out of Germany has raised eyebrows in the medical community by shedding light on a new, amazing technology that could help physicians diagnose sleep apneics. Dubbed an “electronic nose,” this device works by detecting the presence of particular molecules within a subject’s exhaled breath. The presence of these molecules is said to indicate that a patient is likely to have obstructive sleep apnea.
To see how well it did this, researchers tested 40 sleep apneics along with 20 subjects who did not have OSA. In the end, the electronic nose was able to positively identify the presence of sleep apnea 93 percent of the time, which suggests the device may prove to be a valuable tool for physicians at some point in the near future.
Until that Day
Although it has many health professionals intrigued, the “electronic nose” won’t be available for a number of years. That being said, patients can already get a convenient diagnosis either by using an at-home sleep testing device or by visiting a sleep clinic.
If you test positive for sleep apnea, you need to seek treatment. Dr. Berry can provide a sleep apnea treatment that can cure your snoring and put an end to the breathing disruptions that promote frequent waking. Contact his office online or call (303) 691-0267 to learn more.
